Friday Duet James Brown and Lenny Kravitz

The Godfather of Soul definitely made his mark on the world. The hits, his influence, the hot tracks combine to make him one of the most phenomenal performers ever to pick up a microphone.

Born Joseph James Brown, his stage name actually comes from a mistake on his birth certificate. The county recorder listed him as James Brown on the document and the rest, as they say, is history.

When you think of Funk, the first name that comes to mind is the man himself. In fact, Brown is considered the originator of the popular genre that even today, influences artists the world over. Any James Brown Super fan can recite lyrics, slide into a move, throw a cape over their shoulders or belt out a “hey” on cue.

This particular rendition features another innovator in his own right, the multi-talented Lenny Kravitz. Kravitz continues to amaze with his driving guitar riffs and soulful lyrics. The mix of soul and rock personified in every tune he utters.

Debuting in 1989 with his multi Grammy Award winning “Let Love Rule,” he has never looked back, charting nine albums to date. His latest offering, “Black and White America,” is netting new fans and critical acclaim.

Personally, I have always been a fan of this song, but like so many James Brown hits, I could never quite catch all of what he was saying. It is a personal bit of chuckle for me and I am glad for the Internet, where the mystery can be solved.

As I always do, the lyrics are included below.

Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag

Come here sister…..Papa’s in the swing

He ain’t too hip…about that new breed babe

He ain’t no drag

Papa’s got a brand new bag

Come here mama….and dig this crazy scene

He’s not too fancy….but his line is pretty clean

He ain’t no drag.

Papa’s got a brand new bag

He’s doing the Jerk….

He’s doing the Fly

Don’t play him cheap ’cause you know he ain’t shy

He’s doing the Monkey, the Mashed Potatoes, Jump back Jack, See you later